Slater backs Marsh for recall in Gabba Test

CRICKET: Former Australian opening batsman Michael Slater is the latest to weigh into the great Shaun Marsh debate, saying the veteran should be included in the Test team ahead of youngster Matt Renshaw.

After Ian Chappell said he had already drawn a line through Shaun Marsh's name, Slater wasn't so quick to dismiss the injury-prone West Australia, who is recovering from a broken finger.

"If Shaun Marsh had left the side with another hamstring problem - this ongoing issue - I would probably think the injury's going to keep reoccurring,” Slater told Sky Sports Radio.

"But because it's a broken finger, it's a little different.”

The day-night first Test against Pakistan begins in Brisbane on December 15.

"I think that Matthew Renshaw now has had one Test, he's had a great experience,” said Slater, who played 74 Tests.

"He can go back and fill up with Shield runs, hopefully. We know that he's an international player in the future.

"So for the strength of the side, I think Shaun Marsh probably does come back in.

"I would think being the incumbent and showing some good form he should come back into the side.”